“Those Bridges That Help You Get There”: How Natural Mentors Improve Social Support and Social Capital of Unaccompanied Immigrant Youths Leaving Residential Care

This article examines the role of natural mentors in facilitating the transition of unaccompanied immigrant minors from state care to independent living. The authors explore how natural mentors—adults who spontaneously develop supportive relationships with youth—provide emotional support, guidance, and access to social networks, thereby strengthening the social support and social capital available to these young people.